HDPE pipe is well-suited for potable water supply applications. The physical properties of high-density polyethylene pipes allow for applications in a variety of settings. This type of plastic pipe can be used for reclaimed water, sewage, and potable water systems as well. The long life expectancy is one of the most admirable qualities of polyethylene pipe fittings.
Based on recent studies, the best types of plastic pipes can last for 100 years. Plastic pipes now being installed are able to withstand enormous amounts of pressure from within. Moreover, they are designed to resist immense forces from the outside as well, such as waves of pressure triggered during earthquakes and other natural disasters. Potential leak issues are addressed with effective fittings and joint configuration for a zero leak performance. Plastic pipes of various sizes and shapes are available these days. Why don’t you take advantage of the versatility of this material? It offers flexibility, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness.
Perhaps the biggest question for potable water applications of plastic polyethylene pipes is whether the chemical will leach from the material to the liquid. Additives included in the manufacturing process may include colorants, antioxidants, and stabilisers, among others. The risk of chemical migration is present whenever plastic pipes are concerned. Taste and odor concerns from potential leachates are present as well. Studies reveal that the presence of common polymer antioxidants does not pose a significant hazard. The substances are not remarkably toxic and the levels detected are below the standards set for safe drinking water.
BTEX permeation is of particular interest for HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pipes. BTEX stands for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. Based on a published study, it is evident that the BTEX levels in the pipes observed were reduced to safe levels and do not exceed regulatory limits due to the flow of water.
Studies performed on HDPE pipes provide supporting evidence on its eligibility for use in potable water systems. The material characteristics are suitable, but it is still important to consider the type of usage and the environment where the pipes will be used.
In potable water applications, it’s essential that chemicals will not leach from the piping material into the water. Studies show that HDPE pipes are safe for potable water applications. Disinfectants such as chlorine and chloramine are approved for use in HDPE pipes. HPDE pipe will not corrode or tuberculate, maintaining flow velocities over the life span of the system.
Fused joints eliminate potential leak points and reduce installation time. The heat-fused joints are as strong as the pipes themselves, leading to long-term, leak-free operation with little-to-no maintenance required.
HDPE pipes are the most resistant to surge and fatigue of any potable water piping system. HDPE pipe can handle occasional surges up to 2 times its’ pressure rating, and recurring surges up to 1.5 times its’ pressure rating with no risk of stress damage to the pipe. HDPE pipe can handle much higher flow velocities which results in lower pressure surges compared to other potable water piping systems.
Unlike more brittle piping materials such as PVC and ductile iron, HDPE pipe is a more durable and flexible pipe material with a bend radius up to 20 times the pipe diameter. This allows the HDPE pipe to conform to an imperfect installation path without the need to add costly fittings and excessive pipe joints.
HDPE pipe is cheaper to install than other potable water piping systems. With its’ narrower trench widths and its ability to be installed with trench-less technologies (directional drilling, pipe bursting, slip lining, and compression fit lining), making HDPE pipe is the most commonly used piping material for trenchless installations. Compared to other installation methods, trench-less installations reduce disturbances to surrounding environments and greatly reduce the amount of construction restoration, leading to cost savings of up to 65%.
HDPE pipe can handle fluid and environmental temperatures ranging from -40°F to 140°F, making HDPE water pipe suitable for use with hot or cold water in many different environments. HDPE pipe can handle repeated freeze/thaw cycles without incurring damage to the pipe.
The outstanding physical properties of pipes made from polyethylene are not their only advantage. They have a minimal environmental impact, a quality emerging from the manufacturing process, which involves less energy than other types of plumbing materials. The production process does not produce significantly toxic chemicals. In addition, the transport of these pipes requires less energy and costs because they are lightweight.
HDPE water supply pipelines are widely used, mainly because they have characteristics that other pipelines cannot match:
1. It is easy to butt welding and electrofusion welding to form a closed anti-seepage system. When laying along the trench, it can reduce the amount of trench excavated earthwork and reduce accessories.
2. No external protection is needed for buried pipelines with strong wear resistance and excellent hydraulic performance. It can be applied to earthquake and soil settlement areas in mining areas, and it can also be laid at the bottom of rivers by the sinking method.
3. Lightweight and easy to install and handle.
4. Good environmental adaptability and frost resistance. It can be used for indoor and outdoor water supply pipelines.
5. Resistant to chemical corrosion, internal, external, and microbial corrosion, strong corrosion resistance, and healthy. It is suitable for transporting acidic and alkaline substances, sewage, natural gas, coal gas, and other substances.
6. Easy to recycle.
7. Long service life, with a service life of more than almost 50 years.
Shanghai Longain Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of plastic pipes and fittings. It is an enterprise integrating R&D, production, sales, and after-sales service of PPR, PVC, HDPE pipes, and fittings. If you are interested in our production, please contact us for more details!
